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Systemic dexamethasone
Dexamethasone is a synthetic glucocorticoid that suppresses the immune system and reduces inflammation by binding to glucocorticoid receptors in the cytoplasm.
Dexamethasone is a synthetic glucocorticoid that suppresses the immune system and reduces inflammation by binding to glucocorticoid receptors in the cytoplasm. Used for Inflammatory and autoimmune disorders (rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, vasculitis), Cerebral edema and increased intracranial pressure, Adrenocortical insufficiency.
At a glance
| Generic name | Systemic dexamethasone |
|---|---|
| Also known as | Dexamethasone Sodium Phosphate Injection |
| Sponsor | Zealand University Hospital |
| Drug class | Glucocorticoid (corticosteroid) |
| Target | Glucocorticoid receptor (GR) |
| Modality | Small molecule |
| Therapeutic area | Immunology, Rheumatology, Oncology, Endocrinology |
| Phase | FDA-approved |
Mechanism of action
Dexamethasone enters cells and binds to intracellular glucocorticoid receptors, which then translocate to the nucleus and modulate gene transcription. This leads to decreased production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, reduced immune cell activation and proliferation, and suppression of inflammatory responses. It is approximately 25–30 times more potent than endogenous cortisol.
Approved indications
- Inflammatory and autoimmune disorders (rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, vasculitis)
- Cerebral edema and increased intracranial pressure
- Adrenocortical insufficiency
- Severe allergic reactions
- Certain malignancies (as adjunctive therapy)
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease exacerbations
Common side effects
- Hyperglycemia
- Hypertension
- Insomnia and mood disturbances
- Immunosuppression and increased infection risk
- Osteoporosis (with chronic use)
- Gastrointestinal upset
- Cushingoid features (with prolonged use)
Key clinical trials
- A Clinical Study of Gocatamig (MK-6070) and Infinatamab Deruxtecan (MK-2400) in People With Small Cell Lung Cancer (MK-6070-003) (PHASE1, PHASE2)
- A Clinical Trial on the Outcomes of Comprehensive Enhanced Prophylaxis Management (CEPM) in Chinese Patients With EGFR-Mutated Advanced NSCLC Receiving Amivantamab-Based Regimens (PHASE4)
- Rapid dFLC Response Predict CHR in AL Amyloidosis
- Optimize First-line Treatment for AL Amyloidosis With t (11; 14) (NA)
- Pediatric Asthma Trial of Corticosteroid Heterogeneity (PATCH): Trial of Dexamethasone Versus Methylprednisolone for Pediatric Critical Asthma (PHASE2)
- PDS01ADC in Combination With Hepatic Artery Infusion Pump (HAIP) and Systemic Therapy for Subjects With Metastatic Colorectal Cancer, Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma, or Metastatic Adrenocortical Carcinoma (PHASE2)
- Comparison of Systemic Opioid (Morphine) and Pre-Incision Bilateral Scalp Nerve Block for Pain Management in Craniotomy Patients (PHASE4)
- Intravenous Lidocaine Plus Port-Site Ropivacaine for Recovery After Laparoscopic Surgery (PHASE3)
Primary sources
Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.
| Source | Used for |
|---|---|
| ClinicalTrials.gov | Trial enrolment, design, endpoints, results |
Competitive intelligence
For the full competitive landscape — auto-detected comparators, recent regulatory actions across the set, upcoming PDUFA, patent timeline, sponsor landscape:
- Systemic dexamethasone CI brief — competitive landscape report
- Systemic dexamethasone updates RSS · CI watch RSS
- Zealand University Hospital portfolio CI